Air freshener dispensers, cartridges therefor, systems, and methods

ABSTRACT

Automated air freshener dispensers and cartridges therefor are provided herein. Air freshener dispensers include a housing having a cavity for receiving a cartridge containing an air freshening substance for release, a fan that induces an airflow through the housing and directs the airflow to an area outside of the air freshener dispenser, such that released air freshening substance is entrained in the airflow, a motor for driving the fan, at least one sensor, and a controller that receives a signal from the at least one sensor and directs operation of the fan in response thereto.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.14/812,599, filed Jul. 29, 2015, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/030,780, filed Jul. 30, 2014, which areincorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to air freshener dispensers andcartridges therefor, and more particularly to air freshener dispensersand cartridges therefor configured for use with paper product and otherwashroom dispensers.

BACKGROUND

There are numerous problems and frustrations relating to air care andmalodor that exist in public washrooms today. To combat malodor, publicwashroom owners currently rely on a variety of options; however, thecurrent options are expensive, ineffective, or difficult to manage. Forexample, wall-mounted aerosol systems are the most commonly used optionto address malodor. Aerosols often are effective at dispersing fragrancemolecules or droplets into a large space quickly, but are messy becausea liquid is sprayed into the air. The refill (typically, a canister) isdifficult to dispose of, and transportation, packaging, and storage ofcanisters is a challenge because of their combustion potential.Wall-mounted diffusion (both static and active) systems are new to thepublic washroom air care space. They are somewhat effective at treatingmalodor, but refilling them is costly and difficult.

Most public washroom air care solutions are wall-mounted to enabletreatment of the entire washroom space with a minimal number of devices.Because the devices are typically mounted high on the wall in order toprevent pilferage and to improve efficacy, they are difficult to access.Also, the fragrance materials in the refills are often liquids, whichare messy. Some public washroom owners use retail-like products, such asstand-alone aerosol cans, candles, gels, and diffusers. These aresomewhat effective in that they can be used as needed and can be usedcloser to the source of the malodor, but are very susceptible topilferage.

Accordingly, there is a need for improved devices and methods to freshenthe air and to reduce malodor in public washrooms. Therefore, it is tothese ends, as well as other benefits, that the presently discloseddispensers and cartridges are directed.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, automated air freshener dispensers are provided,including a housing that includes a cavity for receiving a cartridgecontaining an air freshening substance for release; a fan within thehousing that induces an airflow through the housing and directs theairflow to an area outside of the air freshener dispenser, such thatreleased air freshening substance is entrained in the airflow directedfrom the air freshener dispenser; a motor within the housing for drivingthe fan; at least one sensor; and a controller within the housing thatreceives a signal from the at least one sensor and directs operation ofthe fan in response thereto. In some embodiments, the housing of the airfreshener dispenser is mountable to a bath tissue dispenser housing. Insome embodiments, the housing of the air freshener dispenser ismountable to another kind of paper product dispenser or to a soap orsanitizer dispenser. In some embodiments, the at least one sensorincludes a user-request sensor that senses the hand of a user adjacentthe user-request sensor and a second sensor. In some embodiments, thehousing includes at least one projection within the cavity, theprojection being configured for mating engagement with a recess of thecartridge.

In another aspect, an air freshener cartridge is provided, including abody that includes a polymer impregnated with an air fresheningsubstance selected from an odor-combatting composition, a fragrance, anda combination thereof, wherein the body has a volume of from about 0.1in³ (1,600 mm³) to about 2.5 in³ (41,000 mm³) and a surface area of fromabout 2.0 in² (1,300 mm²) to about 40 in² (26,000 mm²).

In yet another aspect, an air freshener system is provided, including acartridge having a body that includes a matrix material impregnated withan air freshening substance for release selected from an odor-combattingcomposition, a fragrance, and a combination thereof, the body having avolume of from about 0.1 in³ (1,600 mm³) to about 2.5 in³ (41,000 mm³)and a surface area of from about 2.0 in² (1,300 mm²) to about 40 in²(26,000 mm²); a housing that includes a cavity containing the cartridge;a fan within the housing that induces an airflow through the housing anddirects the airflow to an area outside of the air freshener dispenser,such that released air freshening substance is entrained in the airflowdirected from the air freshener dispenser; a motor within the housingfor driving the fan; at least one sensor; and a controller within thehousing that receives a signal from the at least one sensor and directsoperation of the fan in response thereto.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now to the drawings, which are meant to be exemplary and notlimiting, and wherein like elements are numbered alike:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a combined air freshener and paperproduct dispenser.

FIG. 1B is a front perspective view of the combined air freshener andpaper product dispenser of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of an automated air freshenerdispenser.

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the interior of an automated air freshenerdispenser.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a status indicator panel of an airfreshener dispenser.

FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a combined airfreshener and paper product dispenser.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a detachable louver assembly for anairflow outlet of an air freshener dispenser.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a cavity of an air freshener dispenserand a corresponding air freshener cartridge.

FIG. 8A is a top view of a cavity of an air freshener dispenser.

FIG. 8B is a side view of the cavity of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of various cavity projection geometries.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a cavity of an air freshenerdispenser containing a cartridge with bottom locating features.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a cavity of an air freshenerdispenser containing a cartridge.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a cavity access door in a housing of anair freshener dispenser with top locating features.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of cavity having a cartridge removalfeature.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a cartridge removal feature.

FIG. 15 is a side view of an air freshener cartridge with flexibleengaging features.

FIG. 16 is a side view of a cavity containing an air freshener cartridgeand cartridge recognition and depletion sensor associated with thecavity.

FIG. 17 is a side view of a cavity containing an air freshener cartridgewith flexible engaging features.

FIG. 18A is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge.

FIG. 18B is a top view of the cartridge of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 18C is a side view of the cartridge of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 18D is another side view of the cartridge of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 18E a perspective view showing airflow through the cartridge ofFIG. 18A.

FIG. 18F is a perspective view showing airflow around the cartridge ofFIG. 18A.

FIG. 19A is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge.

FIG. 19B is a top view of the cartridge of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 19C is a side view of the cartridge of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 19D is another side view of the cartridge of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 19E a perspective view showing airflow through the cartridge ofFIG. 19A.

FIG. 19F is a perspective view showing airflow around the cartridge ofFIG. 19A.

FIG. 20A is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge.

FIG. 20B is a top view of the cartridge of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 20C is a side view of the cartridge of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 20D is another side view of the cartridge of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 20E a perspective view showing airflow through the cartridge ofFIG. 20A.

FIG. 20F is a perspective view showing airflow around the cartridge ofFIG. 20A.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge.

FIG. 28A is an exploded perspective view of an air freshener cartridgeand cavity of a dispenser.

FIG. 28B is a perspective view of a user removing the air freshenercartridge of FIG. 28A from the cavity of the dispenser.

FIG. 29A is an exploded perspective view of an air freshener cartridgeand cavity of a dispenser.

FIG. 29B is a perspective view of the air freshener cartridge loaded inthe cavity of FIG. 29A.

FIG. 30A is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge.

FIG. 30B is a cross-sectional view of the air freshener cartridge ofFIG. 30A loaded in a cavity of an air freshener dispenser.

FIG. 30C is a cross-sectional view of the air freshener cartridge ofloaded in the cavity of FIG. 30B, with the cavity door closed.

FIG. 30D is a cross-sectional view of a user removing the air freshenercartridge of FIG. 30A from the cavity of FIG. 30B.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge having ahandling feature.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge having ahandling feature.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of an air freshener cartridge having ahandling feature.

FIG. 34 is a graph showing fragrance intensity over time as measured inExample 1.

FIG. 35 is a graph showing fragrance intensity over time as measured inExample 1.

FIG. 36 is a graph showing fragrance intensity over time as measured inExample 2.

FIG. 37 is a graph showing fragrance intensity over time as measured inExample 2.

FIG. 38 is a graph showing fragrance intensity over time as measured inExample 2.

FIG. 39 is a graph showing fragrance intensity over time as measured inExample 3.

FIG. 40 is a graph showing fragrance intensity over time as measured inExample 3.

FIG. 41 is a graph showing fragrance intensity over time as measured inExample 4.

FIG. 42 is a graph showing fragrance intensity over time as measured inExample 4.

FIG. 43 is a flow diagram of a controller logic sequence for an airfreshener dispenser having a user-request sensor and a motion sensor.

FIG. 44 is a flow diagram of a controller logic sequence for an airfreshener dispenser having a user-request sensor and a motion sensor.

FIG. 45 is a flow diagram of a controller logic sequence for an airfreshener dispenser having a user-request sensor and a motion sensor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed herein are automated air freshener dispensers and cartridgestherefor for use with paper product and other washroom dispensers. Thesedispensers may have one or more of the following benefits over currentlyavailable options: (1) improved effectiveness because thedispenser/freshener is closer to the source of the malodor; (2) improvedeffectiveness because washroom patrons can address instances of acutemalodor through on-demand control; (3) easier refillability because thedispenser/freshener is positioned at a lower height than typical wallmounted devices; (4) easier maintenance because the dispenser/freshenerdoes not require a liquid refill; and (5) improved cost effectivenessbecause the air freshener can be activated only when needed orrequested.

Embodiments of the fragrance dispenser systems also solve the problem ofcombatting malodor without releasing an excessive amount of fragrance,which itself can be perceived as offensive to user and which can depletethe cartridge unnecessarily rapidly. As described herein, the problem issolved by a combination of the freshener cartridge configuration, cavityconfiguration, and fan configuration to achieve a desirable quantity andrate of release of the fragrance. Effective configurations weredeveloped from testing.

Air Freshener Dispensers

Automated air freshener dispensers are provided herein. In certainembodiments, the automated air freshener dispensers are configured to beintegrated with or onto a paper product dispenser, such as a bath tissuedispenser. As used herein, the terms “air freshener” and “airfreshening” refer to substances that treat air by combatting orneutralizing odor, providing a fragrance, or both.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the housing 103 ofan automated air freshener dispenser 102 is mountable to a bath tissuedispenser housing 104 to form a combined air freshener and paper productdispenser 100. As used herein, the phrase “mountable to a bath tissuedispenser housing” refers to the housing of the automated air freshenerdispenser being configured for attachment or coupling to the housing ofa bath tissue dispenser. For example, the housing of the air freshenerdispenser may be configured for attachment to the housing of a bathtissue dispenser by adhesives, solder, welding, magnetic connection,hook-and-loop fasteners, mechanical fasteners, such as screws or bolts,or corresponding snap fit features in the housings.

In one embodiment, the housing 103 of the air freshener dispenser 102 isconfigured to be snap fit to the bath tissue dispenser housing 104. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 5, a bath tissue dispenser may include a bathtissue dispenser housing 504 having a discharge opening for dispensingbath tissue therethrough and a spindle 505 disposed within the housing504 for supporting a roll of the bath tissue.

Thus, in some embodiments, the air freshener dispenser is aself-contained module that is adaptable to fit onto or to be integratedwith an existing paper product dispenser (i.e., is retrofittable onto anexisting paper product dispenser). In other embodiments, the airfreshener dispenser is integrally formed with a paper product dispenser.

While embodiments of the present air freshener dispensers are generallydescribed as being configured for integration with manual bath tissuedispensers, it should be understood that the air freshener dispensersdescribed herein may be combined with any suitable dispensers, such asother automated and manual paper product dispensers (e.g., bath tissueand paper towel dispensers), and soap or sanitizer dispensers, amongothers. In one embodiment, the housing of the air freshener dispenser ismountable to a paper product dispenser or a soap or sanitizer dispenser.

In certain example embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, an automatedair freshener dispenser 102 includes a housing 103 that includes acavity 116 for receiving a cartridge 120 containing an air fresheningsubstance for release. Various cartridge designs are described herein;however, the air freshener dispensers described herein are not limitedto use with such cartridges. Instead, the air freshener dispenserdescribed herein may be used with any suitable cartridges known in theart. As used herein, the term “cartridge” or “air freshener cartridge”refers to a self-supporting solid substance containing an air fresheningsubstance, or a semi-solid substance containing an air fresheningsubstance and that is supported by a container, and assembliescontaining such substances, that are configured to release the airfreshening substance by volatilization and diffusion-based releasethereof. For example, cartridges for use with the presently describedair freshener dispensers may have any suitable composition, size, andshape to fit within the dispenser such that the desired rate andintensity of release of the air freshening substance is achieved.

In some embodiments, the housing includes a transparent window over thecavity, such that maintenance personnel can see the cartridge depletionlevel through the window. In certain embodiments, the cavity forreceiving the cartridge is removable, such that the cavity geometry maybe customized based on the desired air freshener release profile andparticular cartridge geometry. In certain embodiments, the housingincludes more than one cavity for receiving a cartridge and/or thecavity is configured to receive more than one cartridge, such thatcartridges having different air freshening properties (e.g., differencefragrances) may be housed in a single dispenser.

The automated air freshener dispenser 102 also includes a fan 112 withinthe housing 103 that induces an airflow through the housing 103 anddirects the airflow to an area outside of the air freshener dispenser102, such that released air freshening substance is entrained in theairflow directed from the air freshener dispenser 102. The automated airfreshener also includes a motor (not shown) within the housing 103 fordriving the fan 112, at least one sensor 122, 124, and a controller 114within the housing 103 that receives a signal from the at least onesensor 122, 124 and directs operation of the fan 112 in responsethereto. For example, the controller 114 may be any suitable controller,such as a circuit board, microchip, or electronic or mechanical controldevice, as are known in the art. As will be described in more detailherein, the controller provides logic and control functionality usedduring operation of the air freshener dispenser. Alternatively, thefunctionality of the controller may be distributed to severalcontrollers that each provides more limited functionality to discreteportions of the operation of the air freshener dispenser. In someembodiments, the air freshener dispenser 102 also includes a powersource, such as one or more batteries 118, a hard wired electricalconnection, solar panel(s), or other suitable power sources known in theart, to power the components of the dispenser 102.

Thus, the fan 112 may be run in response to receipt of a signal by thesensor(s) 122, 124, to release the air freshening substance to the airspace adjacent the dispenser 102. For example, the air fresheningdispenser 102 may be provided in a washroom stall, such as mounted onthe bath tissue dispenser 104. The sensor(s) may include user-requestand/or user-presence sensors. As used herein, the term “user-requestsensor” refers to any suitable sensor that can detect a user waving ahand near the dispenser, such as a motion or proximity sensor. As usedherein, the term “user-presence sensor” refers to any suitable sensorthat can detect a user's presence within a certain range of the sensor.For example, as user-presence sensor may be configured to detect thepresence of a user in a washroom stall or at the toilet within thestall.

In embodiments of the air freshener dispenser for use in a washroomstall, the sensor(s) 122, 124 may be selected from a variety of suitablesensors, including, but not limited to, motion sensors, proximitysensors, light sensors, odor sensors, thermal sensors, and switches. Forexample, a motion sensor may be configured to sense short or longdistance motion within a washroom stall, such as a user opening the doorand entering the stall or a user waving a hand near the dispenser (i.e.,a user request for dispense). For example, a switch may be configured tosense the opening or closing of a washroom stall door or the presence orabsence of a user at the toilet within the stall. Thus, the airfreshener dispenser 102 may be configured to release the air fresheningsubstance in a variety of circumstances, depending on the location ofthe dispenser and the desired air freshener release parameters. Incertain embodiments, the freshener dispenser 102 may be configured torelease the air freshening substance independently of the withdrawal bya user of tissue from a bath tissue dispenser associated with the airfreshener dispenser. Hence, a user of a washroom advantageously does nothave to touch any surface of the dispenser, or touch and manuallyactivate an aerosol fragrance spray, for instance, in order to releasefragrance or reduce malodor.

As shown in FIG. 5, the air freshener dispenser housing 503 includes anair inlet 528 and an airflow outlet 508, through which the airflowcontaining the entrained released air freshening substance is directedfrom the dispenser 502 at least partially via actuation of the fan 512.An airflow path 529 from the air inlet 528 to the airflow outlet 508 maybe defined within the housing. In certain embodiments, the airflow path529 includes airflow through and/or around the air freshener cartridge520 within the cavity 516, so as to volatilize the air fresheningsubstance present at one or more surfaces of the cartridge and entrainthe air freshening substance in the airflow. For example, illustrationsof airflow through and around various air freshener cartridges areprovided at FIGS. 18E, 18F, 19E, 19F, 20E, and 20F. For ease ofillustration, these figures show the airflow through and around thecartridges separately; however, it should be understood that in typicaloperation, airflow both around and through the cartridge will occursimultaneously.

In certain embodiments, the airflow path 529 from the air inlet 528 tothe airflow outlet 508 is tortuous. As used herein, the term “tortuous”refers to the airflow path having a non-linear course through thehousing. For example, a tortuous airflow path 529 may reduce the passiverelease of air containing entrained released air freshening substancethrough the airflow outlet. As used herein, the terms “passive releaseof air containing entrained released air freshening substance” and“passively released air freshening substance” refer to release of theair freshening substance from the cartridge absent actuation of the fan.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5, the housing 503 of the airfreshener dispenser 502 is designed to have a particular total headspacevolume and/or to have a particular cavity headspace volume. As usedherein, the term “headspace” refers to the unoccupied volume of thespecified compartment. For example, the term “cavity headspace” refersto the air space volume of the empty cavity (i.e., prior to loading of acartridge therein) that is not occupied by structural features of thecavity (e.g., projections from the cavity base or cover, cartridgeremoval features). Thus, when a cartridge is loaded in the cavity, theheadspace within the cavity will be reduced by the volume of thecartridge. For example, the term “housing headspace” refers to the airspace volume within the housing not occupied by the various componentscontained within the housing (e.g., controller, fan, motor, powersource). For example, the headspace volume of the housing and/or cavitymay be selected to accommodate a certain volume of air containingentrained passively released air freshening substance, such as the aircontaining entrained passively released air freshening substance thataccumulates between actuation cycles of the fan. In some embodiments,the housing has a headspace volume of from about 15 in³ (250,000 mm³) toabout 45 in³ (740,000 mm³), of from about 25 in³ (410,000 mm³) to about35 in³ (570,000 mm³), or of about 30 in³ (490,000 mm³). In certainembodiments, the cavity has a headspace volume of from about 0.2 m³(3,300 mm³) to about 4 in³ (70,000 mm³). In some embodiments, the cavityhas a headspace volume of from about 1 in³ (20,000 mm³) to about 4 in³(70,000 mm³), of from about 2 in³ (30,000 mm³) to about 3 in³ (50,000mm³), or of about 2.5 in³ (40,000 mm³). As used herein, the term “about”means plus or minus 10 percent of the numerical value of the number withwhich it is being used.

In certain embodiments, the fan 512 is configured to pull and/or pushany air containing entrained passively released air freshening substancethat accumulates between actuation cycles of the fan and to induceairflow through and/or around the air freshener cartridge 520 within thecavity 516, so as to volatilize the air freshening substance present atone or more surfaces of the cartridge and entrain the air fresheningsubstance in the airflow. Thus, the fan 512 may be configured to induceairflow through the housing 503 and to direct airflow of any accumulatedair containing entrained passively released air freshening substance inthe housing 503 and/or cavity 516 headspaces, as well as airflowcontaining entrained released air freshening substance induced byactuation of the fan 512, to be released from the dispenser 502. Incertain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5, the fan 512 is positionedwithin the housing 503 between the airflow outlet 508 and the cavity516. In such embodiments, the fan 512 pulls airflow through and/oraround a cartridge 520 contained in the cavity 516. In otherembodiments, the cavity is positioned between the airflow outlet and thefan, such that the fan pushes airflow through and/or around a cartridgecontained in the cavity.

As discussed in more detail below, the cartridge may have airflowchannels that are configured to align with the airflow path when thecartridge is loaded in the cavity, to maximize airflow through the airfreshener cartridge and to increase the exposed surface area of thecartridge from which air freshening substance may be volatilized,thereby appropriately maximizing release of the air fresheningsubstance.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the fan 112 is a centrifugalfan or an axial fan. In certain embodiments, the fan has a speed of fromabout 500 rpm to about 4000 rpm. In some embodiments, the fan has aspeed of from about 1,000 rpm to about 2,000 rpm. For example, the fanmay have a speed of about 1,800 rpm. The fan may be controlled tooperate for a set time period once the sensor has been triggered, suchas from 5 to 120 seconds, from 5 to 60 seconds, or from 10 to 45seconds, and the like. As is described in more detail below, thecontroller also can be programmed with a time delay, which can beadjusted, between periods of fan rotation (operation). As an example,the controller can prevent continuous fan rotation by implementing atime delay of from 5 seconds to 10 minutes, from 5 to 60 seconds, orfrom 10 to 45 seconds, between periods of fan rotation.

In certain embodiments, the fan 112 is configured such that the airflowcontaining the entrained released air freshening substance is directedfrom the air freshener dispenser 103 at a volume of from about 0.1ft³/min (0.003 m³/min) to about 10 ft³/min (0.3 m³/min). In someembodiments, the fan 112 is configured such that the airflow containingthe entrained released air freshening substance is directed from the airfreshener dispenser 102 at a volume of from about 0.5 ft³/min (0.01m³/min) to about 5 ft³/min (0.14 m³/min). In some embodiments, the fan112 is configured such that the airflow containing the entrainedreleased air freshening substance is directed from the air freshenerdispenser 102 at a volume of from about 1 ft³/min (0.03 m³/min) to about3 ft³/min (0.09 m³/min). For example, the fan 112 may be configured suchthat the airflow containing the entrained released air fresheningsubstance is directed from the air freshener dispenser 102 at a volumeof about 1.1 ft³/min (0.031 m³/min), about 1.4 ft³/min (0.040 m³/min),or about 1.9 ft³/min (0.054 m³/min).

Thus, an air freshener dispenser 102 may be designed to provide adesired release of air freshening substance by selecting particulardispenser housing 103 and cavity 116 sizes, as well as fan 112parameters (e.g., volumetric air release rate), for a cartridge 120having a particular geometry (e.g., volume, surface area) andcomposition (e.g., air freshening substance loading).

As discussed above, air containing air freshening substance passivelyreleased from the cartridge may flow from the housing with or withoutactuation of the fan. When the fan is stationary, air containing airfreshening substance passively released from the cartridge may flow fromthe airflow outlet and/or from an air vent in the housing. In someembodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the housing 103 includes a vent 130 forallowing passive airflow from the air freshener dispenser therethrough.The vent may be distinct from the airflow outlet of the dispenser andmay be disposed on a face of the dispenser housing other than the facein which the airflow outlet is disposed. For example, the vent may bedisposed in a rear face of the dispenser housing (i.e., the face of thehousing that faces the wall on which the dispenser is mounted), suchthat the vent is not generally accessible. In some embodiments, the venthas an open area of from about 0.1 in² (60 mm²) to about 10 in² (6,000mm²). In some embodiments, the vent has an open area of from about 0.1in² (60 mm²) to about 5 in² (3,000 mm²). For example, the vent may havean open area of about 0.6 in² (400 mm²). In some embodiments, thehousing further includes a mechanism to restrict flow of the aircontaining air freshening substance passively released from thecartridge. For example, the housing may include a valve, such as aone-way flow valve, that permits airflow therethrough only when the airpressure at the valve reaches a threshold pressure.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5, the airflow outlet 508includes at least one louver 509 to direct the airflow direction out ofthe air freshener dispenser 502. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5,the at least one louver 509 is configured to direct the airflowdownward. In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, whereinthe at least one louver 109 of the airflow outlet 108 is configured todirect the airflow at an angle from between 0 degrees and 80 degreesrelative to a face of the housing in which the airflow outlet islocated. In other embodiments, the louver of the airflow outlet isconfigured to direct the airflow at an angle from between 10 degrees and170 degrees relative to a face of the housing in which the airflowoutlet is located. For example, the louvers may be configured to directthe airflow away from an occupant of the stall, such as by directing theairflow upwards, downwards, or laterally toward the sides of thedispenser. In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, the louver(s) 609are detachably associated with the housing of the dispenser. That is,the louver(s) can be removed and reattached in a different orientation,e.g., by snap-fit engagement. Such detachable louver(s) may allow thelouver(s) to be selectively positioned (e.g., inverted) to directairflow away from a washroom stall occupant, depending on the placementof the dispenser in the stall. In certain embodiments, the airflowoutlet includes a shuttering mechanism or adjustable louver(s) to adjustthe direction and/or volume of airflow out of the airflow outlet.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the air freshenerdispenser 102 also includes at least one status indicator 106 indicatingsome status information about the dispenser or its components. Forexample, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the status indicator 106 may includelights that indicate a cartridge depletion status 126 b (e.g.,indicating that the air freshener cartridge is spent or near spent andneeds to be replaced), a fan operation status 126 a (e.g., indicatingthat the fan is running), a power source status 126 c (e.g., indicatingthat the batteries are low on power and need to be replaced), or anycombination thereof. Additionally, the status indicator may indicateinformation regarding the level of air freshening (e.g., fragranceand/or odor control) provided by the dispenser, such as a meter showingthe relative amount of air freshener being released when the dispenseris operated. In some embodiments, the status indicator indicates that itsenses a user presence and/or a user request for dispense of airfreshening substance. For example, the status indicator lights may beLED or other suitable lights. At times when these events are notoccurring, the status indicator lights can be dark (i.e., not lit). Thestatus information and the status indicators can be monitored and/orcontrolled by the controller. Thus, in certain embodiments, thecontroller receives information regarding the cartridge depletionstatus, the fan operation status, or the power source status andinstructs activation of a corresponding status indicator light inresponse thereto.

Status information about the dispenser and/or its components may bedetermined via a variety of suitable means. For example, the cartridgedepletion status information may be determined and provided to thecontroller by a sensor, a timer, or both. For example, a mechanicalcartridge depletion sensor may be configured to sense changes in thepresence of, mass, or dimensions of the cartridge. For example, thesensor may include a load cell, a mechanically actuated switch, or aproximity sensor. In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 16, thehousing of the dispenser may include a switch 1546 in communication withthe cavity 1516 such that when a new cartridge 1520 is introduced intothe cavity 1516, the switch is engaged by a portion 1542 of thecartridge 1520. In these embodiments, when the cartridge depletes to acertain extent or is removed, the switch is disengaged. Other means todetermine cartridge introduction into the cavity include an RFID readerin the housing for reading an RFID tag associated with the cartridge. Incertain embodiments, a sensor is configured to detect introduction of acartridge into the cavity and to initiate a timer in response thereto,such that the timer indicates cartridge depletion after a certain periodof time (e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days). Alternatively, the sensor may beconfigured to detect depletion of the cartridge, such that a cartridgedepletion signal is transmitted to the controller upon the sensorsensing a certain level of depletion. For example, depletion may bedetermined by a pre-selected reduction in a dimension, which may beoptically or mechanically detected, or by a pre-selected reduction inweight of the cartridge, which may be detected by a load cell.

In certain embodiments, the housing includes a user interface thataccepts user input (e.g., via buttons) on various dispenser features.For example, the user interface may allow a user to select a particularfragrance for dispense or a level (correlated to quantity) of airfreshener released by the dispenser, among other dispenser parameters.In one embodiment, the user interface allows the user to close orpartially close the airflow outlet, such as by shuttering it, or toadjust the direction or angle of airflow out of the airflow outlet, suchas by adjusting the louver(s).

In certain embodiments, the air freshener dispenser further includesdispenser usage information tracking and other metric trackingcapabilities. For example, the air freshener dispenser may include oneor more sensors configured to track dispenser usage, throughput, numberof people using the dispenser, off/on signals, battery, breakage,cartridge depletion, and introduction and authenticity of a cartridgeinto the cavity, among others. In some embodiments, a Bluetooth or othercommunication device in communication with the controller of the airfreshener dispenser communicates dispenser status information and/ormetrics to a network hub for monitoring.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the housingincludes a cartridge removal feature for aiding in removal of a depletedcartridge from the cavity by maintenance personnel. For example, asshown in FIG. 13, the housing 1303 may include a ribbon or flexiblestrip 1336 that is partially disposed in the cavity 1316 under acartridge 1320 loaded therein, such that an end of the flexible strip1336 is outside of the cavity 1316 when a cartridge 1320 is loadedtherein to allow for removal of the cartridge 1320 from the cavity 1316by pulling on the exposed end of the flexible strip 1336. In anotherembodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the cavity contains a spring loadedplate 1438 onto which the cartridge may be loaded, such that thecartridge is partially outside the cavity, and thereby accessible, whenthe spring is disengaged. In one embodiment, a spring is associated withthe cavity such that when the spring is engaged, the refill sitscompletely within the cavity, and, when the spring is disengaged, therefill sits partially outside the cavity, making it accessible to a userfor removal. For example, the spring may be disposed such that itcontacts the cartridge within the cavity, such that a user may push onthe cartridge to engage or disengage the spring.

As discussed above, in embodiments of the present disclosure, automatedair freshener dispensers include at least one suitable sensor and acontroller that is configured to receive a signal from the at least onesensor and directs operation of the fan in response thereto. In certainembodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, an automated air freshener dispenser102 includes a user-request sensor 124 that senses the hand of a useradjacent the user-request sensor 124 and a second sensor 122. In theseembodiments, the controller 114 is configured to receive signals fromthe user-request sensor and the second sensor and to direct operation ofthe fan in response thereto. In certain embodiments, the second sensoris a user-presence sensor, such as a motion sensor, proximity sensor,light sensor, odor sensor (e.g., sensing malodor or fragrance), orswitch. For example, the second sensor may be configured to sense thepresence of a user in an area near the dispenser (e.g., in the washroomstall in which the air freshener dispenser is located), independent of auser-request. For example, a motion sensor may be configured to sensemotion within a washroom stall, such as a user opening the door andentering the stall. For example, a switch may be configured to sense theopening or closing of a washroom stall door or the presence or absenceof a user at the toilet within the stall, such as via a pressure sensorat the seat of the toiler. In some embodiments, the sensor(s) isconfigured to sense the rotation or dispense of bath tissue, other paperproducts, soap, sanitizer, or another product from an associated productdispenser. For example, the sensor(s) may be configured to sense themanual dispense of bath tissue from an associated bath tissue dispenser,such as by sensing rotation of a spindle of the bath tissue dispenser.In some embodiments, the sensor(s) is configured to sense the flushingof a toilet within the washroom stall or another event.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, an air freshener dispenser 102includes a user-request sensor 124 and a user-presence sensor 122, suchas a motion sensor or any other user-presence sensors described herein,for sensing the presence of a user in the washroom stall. In someembodiments, the user-request sensor is a short range sensor and themotion sensor is a longer range sensor. For example, the short and longrange sensors may both be passive infrared sensors. In some embodiments,the user-request sensor is a capacitive sensor.

In certain embodiments, an automated air freshener dispenser includes auser-presence sensor that senses the presence of a user within a certainspace or location and a second sensor. In these embodiments, the secondsensor may be a user-request sensor that senses the hand of a useradjacent the user-request sensor.

As discussed above, the controller may be configured to direct the motorto drive the fan for a predetermined duration in response to receipt ofa signal from the sensor(s). For example, the predetermined duration maybe from about 5 seconds to about 60 seconds, from about 10 to about 45seconds, from about 25 seconds to about 35 seconds, or about 30 seconds.In certain embodiments, the controller is further configured to preventthe fan from operating if the fan was run recently, even if thesensor(s) has been activated. This feature advantageously can mitigateover-release of fragrance and abuse of the dispenser. In one embodiment,the controller is configured to determine whether the fan has beendriven within a predetermined period preceding receipt of a signal fromthe at least one sensor and to prevent the motor from driving the fan inresponse to receipt of the signal if the fan has been driven within thepredetermined period preceding receipt of the signal. For example, thepredetermined period is from about 5 seconds to about 10 minutes, fromabout 10 seconds to about 45 seconds, or from about 20 to about 30seconds. In other embodiments, the controller is not configured toprevent the motor from driving the fan upon receipt of a signal from theat least one sensor.

Thus, the controller may be configured to have a certain logic sequencethat controls the running (or preventing the running) of the fan inresponse to signals from the sensor(s), and the period the fan runs inresponse to receipt of signals from the sensor(s). In certainembodiments, the controller directs the motor to drive the fan for afirst duration in response to receipt of a signal from a first sensorand to drive the fan for a second duration that is shorter or longerthan the first duration in response to receipt of a signal from a secondsensor. For example, the controller may be configured to direct runningof the fan for a longer duration upon receipt of a signal from themotion sensor and for a shorter duration upon receipt of a signal from auser-request sensor. In other embodiments, the controller directed themotor to drive the fan for a certain duration upon receipt of a signalfrom any of the sensor(s) of the dispenser.

In certain embodiments in which the dispenser includes a user-requestsensor and a second sensor, the air freshener dispense cycle begins withone activation of the second sensor and may include multipleuser-request activations. That is, after an initial detection of motionor another event (e.g., an occupant entering a stall, the stall doorclosing, a user near or on the toilet within the stall), the airfreshener dispenser runs the fan for a first duration, for example from20 to 50 seconds. After this initial detection of a non-user-requestevent by the second sensor, the logic may prevent the running of the fanin response to a signal from the second sensor for a period of time, forexample from 2 to 6 minutes. Thus, after the initial activation of thefan in response to the signal from the second sensor, the controller mayrun the fan only in response to receipt of a signal from theuser-request sensor within the 2 to 6 minute period. In response to asignal from the user-request sensor, the controller may direct runningof the fan for a second duration, for example from 10 to 30 seconds. Insome embodiments, the controller logic prevents the running of the fanin response to a signal from the second sensor for the period of time,for example from 2 to 6 minutes, after the running of the fan inresponse to any signal type. In some embodiments, the controller furtherprevents running of the fan in response to a signal from theuser-request sensor for a period of time, for example, 10 to 40 seconds,after the running of the fan in response to any signal type.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured (i) to direct themotor to drive the fan for a duration from about 20 seconds to about 50seconds in response to receipt of a signal from the motion sensor, (ii)to direct the motor to drive the fan for a duration from about 10seconds to about 30 seconds in response to receipt of a signal from theuser-request sensor, and (iii) to determine whether the fan has beendriven within a period of from about 10 to about 40 seconds precedingreceipt of a signal from the user-request sensor and to prevent themotor from driving the fan in response to receipt of the signal from theuser-request sensor if the fan has been driven within the periodpreceding receipt of the signal. In certain embodiments, the controlleris further configured to determine whether the fan has been drivenwithin a period of from about 2 minutes to about 6 minutes precedingreceipt of a signal from the motion sensor and to prevent the motor fromdriving the fan in response to receipt of the signal from the motionsensor if the fan has been driven within the period preceding receipt ofthe signal.

FIG. 43 illustrates a logic cycle flow diagram 4300 for an air freshenerdispenser having a user-request and a motion sensor. Initially, thelogic cycle 4300 includes the motion sensor searching for motion at step4370. Upon the motion sensor sensing motion, the controller directs themotor to run the fan for either 20, 30, or 40 seconds, depending on theprogrammed logic for that particular dispenser, at step 4372. After theinitial running of the fan, the controller then prevents the fan fromrunning for 30 seconds at step 4374. After the 30 second delay, thecontroller will drive the fan for 20 seconds in response to receipt of asignal from the user-request (e.g., hand wave) sensor at steps 4376 and4380. After running of the fan in response to a signal from theuser-request sensor, the controller prevents the fan from running for 30seconds at steps 4378 and 4382. After each running of the fan, if nosignal from the user-request sensor is received within 5 minutes, asshown at steps 4384, 4386, and 4388, then the controller returns to thesearching for motion step 4370, so as to thereafter direct running ofthe fan in response to a signal from the motion sensor and restart thelogic sequence. Thus, the controller only runs the fan in response to asignal from the motion sensor at step 4372 and thereafter preventsrunning of the fan in response to a signal from the motion sensor for aperiod of at least 5 minutes.

FIG. 44 illustrates a logic flow diagram 4400 for an air freshenerdispenser having a user-request and a motion sensor. Initially, thelogic cycle 4400 includes the motion sensor searching for motion at step4470. Upon the motion sensor sensing motion, the controller directs themotor to run the fan for 40 seconds at step 4472. After the initialrunning of the fan, the controller then prevents the fan from runningfor 30 seconds at step 4474. After the 30 second delay, the controllerwill drive the fan for 20 seconds in response to receipt of a signalfrom the user-request (i.e., hand wave) sensor at steps 4476, 4480, and4490. After running of the fan in response to a signal from theuser-request sensor, the controller prevents the fan from running for 30seconds at steps 4478, 4482, and 4492. After each running of the fan, ifno signal from the user-request sensor is received within either 2 or 3minutes, depending on the phase with the logic cycle, as shown at steps4484, 4486, 4488, and 4494, the controller returns to the searching formotion step 4470, so as to thereafter direct running of the fan inresponse to a signal from the motion sensor and restart the logic cycle.Thus, the controller only runs the fan in response to a signal from themotion sensor at step 4472 and thereafter prevents running of the fan inresponse to a signal from the motion sensor for a period of at least 2minutes after running of the fan.

FIG. 45 illustrates a logic flow diagram 4500 for an air freshenerdispenser having a user-request and a motion sensor. Initially, thelogic cycle 4500 includes the motion sensor searching for motion at step4570. Upon the motion sensor sensing motion, the controller directs themotor to run the fan for 40 seconds at step 4572. Immediately afterdriving the fan in response to detecting motion, the controller willdrive the fan for 20 seconds in response to receipt of a signal from theuser-request (i.e., hand wave) sensor at step 4576. After the initialrunning of the fan in response to a signal from the user-request sensor,the controller prevents the fan from running for 30 seconds at steps4578, 4582, and 4592. After each running of the fan, if no signal fromthe user-request sensor is received within either 2 or 3 minutes,depending on the phase with the logic cycle, as shown at steps 4584,4586, 4588, and 4594, the controller returns to the searching for motionstep 4570, so as to thereafter direct running of the fan in response toa signal from the motion sensor and restart the logic cycle. Thus, thecontroller only runs the fan in response to a signal from the motionsensor at step 4572 and thereafter prevents running of the fan inresponse to a signal from the motion sensor for a period of at least 2minutes after running of the fan.

Logic sequences used in the presently disclosed air freshener dispensersmay be designed to conserve battery life and optimize productperformance as well as to prevent excessive dispense of air freshenerthat may be unpleasant to users. Accordingly, in some embodiments, afterthe initial non-user-request based (i.e., second sensor based)activation of the fan, air freshener dispense can only be activated by auser request for a period of 2 to 6 minutes, depending on the dispenser.

In certain embodiments, the user-request sensor is configured to betriggered upon sensing one, two, three, or more waves of a user's hand.Thus, the logic sequence may be configured to initiate driving of thefan only in response to a certain number of hand waves by a user,depending on the position within the logic sequence. For example, asshown in FIG. 44, certain steps within the logic cycle 4400 require onlytwo hand waves to be sensed (steps 4474 and 4480) to initiate drivingthe fan, while certain steps later in the sequence (steps 4490 and 4480,after delay 4492) require at least three hand waves to be sensed toinitiate driving the fan.

In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to continuouslydrive the fan at a certain rate to release a relatively low airfreshener from the dispenser continuously, and to drive the fan at ahigher rate in response to receipt of a signal from the at least onesensor, to provide a burst of air freshener.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7, the housing 703 of the airfreshener dispenser includes at least one projection 730 within thecavity 716 that is configured for mating engagement with a recess 732 ofthe cartridge 720. The one or more projections advantageously may assistin aligning the cartridge within cavity and housing to encourage properairflow through and around the cartridge, to provide ease of access toand/or removal of the cartridge by maintenance personnel, to ensure thatthe cartridges are used with the appropriate dispenser (i.e., to preventthe use of cartridges designed for use with other dispensers), and tomitigate or prevent the use of unauthorized cartridge refills with thedispenser.

A variety of suitable projection geometries and configurations may beused. For example, the projection may include one or more ribs or postslocated within the cavity. For example, FIG. 7 illustrates a cavityhaving a cross-shaped projection 730 centrally located within the cavity716 and a cartridge 720 having a corresponding cross-shaped recess 732.For example, FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a cavity 816 having two taperedcross-shaped posts 830, 831 of different heights located near oppositecorners of the cavity 816. For example, having posts of differentheights may enable easier removal of the cartridge, as explained furtherwith reference to FIGS. 28A and B. Various projection geometries 930 a,930 b, 930 c, 930 d, 930 e, 930 f, 930 g are shown at FIG. 9. As shownat FIG. 9, the projections may be tapered. In other embodiments, theprojections have a consistent cross-section over their length. In someembodiments, the projection may have a circular, oval, elliptical,triangular, cross-shaped, star-shaped, or more complex shaped crosssection.

As shown in FIG. 10, the cavity 1016 may contain three rib-likeprojections 1030 that are configured to mate with airflow channels ofthe cartridge 1020. In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11, thehousing 1103 includes a door 1134 that provides access to the cavity1116 and the projection(s) 1130 is located on the door 1134. Forexample, the door may be a hinged or slidable design and may provideaccess within the housing to the battery compartment and/or othercomponents, as well as to the cavity. As shown in FIG. 12, the door 1234provides access to the cavity 1216 and includes three rib-likeprojections 1230 for mating with corresponding recesses of a cartridgeloaded into the cavity 1216. As shown in FIG. 12, the rib-likeprojections 1230 of the cavity door or base may have a curvilinearprofile to minimize the contact between the cartridge surfaces and theprojections such that airflow through the airflow channels of thecartridge that receive the projections is minimally restricted. In someembodiments, projections are provided on both the base and door of thecavity.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 17, the cavity 1516 hasone or more recesses 1544 that are configured for mating engagement withone or more projections 1545 of the cartridge 1520. For example, theprojections 1545 of the cartridge 1520 may be configured for a snap-fitengagement with the cavity recesses 1544.

In an alternative embodiment, the positions of the one or moreprojections and the mating recesses are reversed. That is, the cartridgemay include one or more projections, and at least one wall structuredefining the cavity includes the associated one or more recesses formating engagement with the one more projections.

As shown in FIG. 16, a sensor or switch 1546 may be associated with thecavity 1516 and configured to detect the presence of a cartridge in thecavity 1516. In some embodiments, the sensor/switch 1546 is configuredsend a signal to the controller when a cartridge 1520 is introduced tothe cavity 1516 and/or to send a signal to the controller when thecartridge 1520 is removed from the cavity 1516 or depletes to a certainextent. For example, as air freshening substance is released from thecartridge, the cartridge may shrink, such that a switch or other sensorcan determine the depletion status of the cartridge.

Air Freshener Cartridges

Air freshener cartridges are also provided herein. As discussed above,an air freshener cartridge may be any suitable self-supporting solidsubstance containing an air freshening substance, or a semi-solidsubstance containing an air freshening substance and that is supportedby a container, and assemblies containing such substances, that areconfigured to release the air freshening substance by volatilization anddiffusion-based release thereof. For example, cartridges may have anysuitable composition, size, and shape to fit within the dispenser suchthat the desired rate and intensity of release of the air fresheningsubstance is achieved. In some embodiments, cartridges for use with thepresently described air freshener dispensers may include gel-based,wax-based, ceramic-based, or polymer-based substances containing orimpregnated with an air freshening substance. In some embodiments, thecartridges are monolithic structures, such as blocks or other designshaving airflow channels. In some embodiments, the cartridges have acontainer, such as a cup, containing a gel-based air fresheningsubstance. In some embodiments, the cartridge includes a plurality ofair freshening beads, such as loose or sintered beads. For example, acartridge may include a plurality of loose beads contained within a meshbag. Cartridges described herein may be manufactured by any suitablemeans, such as by injection-molding or extrusion.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 18A-18E, an air freshenercartridge 1820 includes a body 1848 containing a matrix materialimpregnated with an air freshening substance selected from anodor-combatting composition, a fragrance, and a combination thereof.Thus, the air freshening substance may have a scent or be unscented.

In certain embodiments, the body of the cartridge contains the airfreshening substance in an amount of from about 1 percent by weight toabout 75 percent by weight. In some embodiments, the body contains theair freshening substance in an amount of from about 10 percent by weightto about 50 percent by weight. In some embodiments, the body containsthe air freshening substance in an amount of from about 15 percent byweight to about 45 percent by weight. In some embodiments, the bodycontains the air freshening substance in an amount of from about 20percent by weight to about 30 percent by weight. In one embodiment, thebody contains the air freshening substance in an amount of about 25percent by weight. In one embodiment, the body contains the airfreshening substance in an amount of about 35 percent by weight. Theratio of air freshening substance to matrix material in the cartridgebody may be selected to provide the desired release of the air freshenersubstance.

The matrix material and air freshening substance may be selected fromvarious suitable materials known in the art. For example, the matrixmaterial may be a polymer, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA).Suitably, EVA has no odor but can be impregnated with a fragrance orodor-combatting composition. Additionally, EVA approaches elastomericmaterials in softness and flexibility, yet can be processed like athermoplastic. In certain embodiments, the EVA polymer of the cartridgebody has a number average molecular weight in the range of about 10,000Daltons to about 100,000 Daltons, or from about 22,000 to about 87,000Daltons. Other elastomeric or thermoplastic polymers known in the artmay also be used in the cartridge body. For example, the polymer of thecartridge body may include ethyl vinyl alcohol, high densitypolyethylene, low density polyethylene, polystyrene, acrylic polymers,polycarbonates, polyurethanes, nylons, and mixtures and copolymersthereof.

The matrix material may be impregnated with one or more suitable airfreshening substances known in the art. For example, suitable airfreshening substances may be selected from those compiled by the U.S.Food and Drug Administration in Title 21 of the Code of FederalRegulations, Sections 172.5 10 and 172.5 15. In certain embodiments, theair freshening substance is selected from the group consisting ofbenzaldehydes, phenols, cinnamic aldehydes and esters, octadienes,dienes, cyclohexadienes, terpenes, and combinations thereof. In someembodiments, the air freshening substance includes triethylene glycol, ableach, or hydrogen peroxide. Fragrance oils are also suitable for usealone or in combination with other fragrance chemicals. Suitablefragrance oils include, for examples spice oil, flower oil, and fruitoil. Other suitable fragrances include, but are not limited to, benzylalcohol, ethyl maltol, furaneol, 1-hexanol, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, menthol,benzaldehyde, hexanal, cinnamaldehyde, citral, cis-3-hexenal, furfural,neral, vanillin, ethyl acetate, ethyl butanoate, ethyl decanoate, ethylhexanoate, ethyl octanoate, hexyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, methylbutanoate, methyl salicylate, pentyl butanoate, pentyl pentanoate,sotolon, strawberry aldehyde, fructone, anethole, anisole, eugenol,dihydrojasmone, 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline,6-acetyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydropyridine, gamma-decalactone,gamma-nonalactone, delta-octalactone, jasmine lactone, massoia lactone,camphor, citronellol, linalool, nerol, nerolidol,alpha-terpineol,thujone, and thymol. In certain embodiments, the air fresheningsubstance may include one or more additives, such as hindered amines orantioxidants.

The air freshener cartridge body may be sized and shaped to provide thedesired passive and fan-induced release of the air freshener substance.For example, the cartridge body may have a particular volume and surfacearea to provide a desired release profile. The cartridge body may alsobe sized and shaped to have one or more recesses for mating engagementwith projection(s) of the cavity of a dispenser. Various cartridge bodydesigns are illustrated at FIGS. 15-33.

In certain embodiments, the cartridge body has a volume of from about0.1 in³ (1,600 mm³) to about 2.5 in³ (41,000 mm³). In certainembodiments, the cartridge body has a volume of from about 0.4 in³(7,000 mm³) to about 1.4 in³ (23,000 mm³). For example, the cartridgebody may have a volume of from about 0.75 in³ (12,000 mm³) to about 1in³ (20,000 mm³), from about 0.85 in³ (14,000 mm³) to about 1 in³(20,000 mm³), or of about 0.9 in³ (15,000 mm³). In certain embodiments,the cartridge body has a surface area of from about 2.0 in² (1,300 mm²)to about 40 in² (26,000 mm²). In certain embodiments, the cartridge bodyhas a surface area of from about 9 in² (6,000 mm²) to about 28 in²(18,000 mm²). For example, the cartridge body may have a surface area offrom about 14 in² (9,000 mm²) to about 21 in² (14,000 mm²), from about17 in² (11,000 mm²) to about 21 in² (14,000 mm²), or of about 20 in²(13,000 mm²). In some embodiments, the cartridge body has a weight of upto about 20 g, such as up to about 15 g. In certain embodiments, thecartridge body has a weight of from about 6 g to about 20 g. Forexample, the cartridge may have a weight of from about 11 g to about 15g, from about 11.5 g to about 13 g, or from about 14 g to about 15 g.

The cartridge body may have any desired shape and geometry selected toprovide to the desired release profile of the air freshening substanceimpregnated in the matrix material. In certain embodiments, as shown inFIG. 18A, the body 1848 of the cartridge 1820 includes a plurality ofribs 1850 extending from a substrate 1854 and forming airflow channels1852 therebetween. In certain embodiments, from about 3 to about 30 ribsextend from each surface of a substrate (i.e., ribs extend from both thetop surface and the opposed bottom surface of the substrate). In otherembodiments, from about 3 to about 30 ribs extend from one surface of asubstrate. For example, the airflow channels may extend from one edge ofthe body to another opposed edge of the body, such that the channels maybe aligned with the airflow path within the housing when the cartridgeis loaded into a cavity of a dispenser.

Various cartridge body, rib, and substrate designs may be used,depending on the particular cavity design and desired releasecharacteristics. Three rib and substrate designs are shown in FIGS.18-20.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, the 16 ribs 1850 extending fromthe top and bottom surfaces of the substrate (8 rib pairs) each have asubstantially rectangular surface and are tapered from a wider rib baseat the substrate 1854 to a thinner rib face. As illustrated in FIGS.18B, 18C, and 18D, the body 1848 of the cartridge 1820 may have a height(h) of about 18 mm, a length (l) of about 44 mm, a width (w) of about 26mm, a rib face thickness (t_(i)) of about 3 mm, a rib base thickness(t_(ii)) of about 5 mm, a base air channel gap (d_(i)) of about 0.9 mm,a face air channel gap (d_(ii)) of about 2 mm, a volume of about 15,500mm³, and a surface area of about 9,570 mm².

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 19, the 24 ribs 1950 extendingfrom the top and bottom surfaces of the substrate (12 rib pairs) eachhave a substantially rectangular surface and are tapered from a widerrib base at the substrate 1954 to a thinner rib face. As illustrated inFIGS. 19B, 19C, and 19D, the body 1948 of the cartridge 1920 may have aheight (h) of about 18 mm, a length (l) of about 44 mm, a width (w) ofabout 26 mm, a rib face thickness (t_(i)) of about 2.6 mm, a rib basethickness (t_(ii)) of about 2.9 mm, a base air channel gap (d_(i)) ofabout 0.8 mm, a face air channel gap (d_(ii)) of about 1.4 mm, a volumeof about 15,400 mm³, and a surface area of about 13,100 mm². Thus, byincreasing the number of ribs provided in a cartridge having a constantoverall height, length, and width, the surface area and volume of thebody may be increased.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 20, the ribs 2050 each have aserpentine shaped surface and are tapered from a wider rib base at thesubstrate 2054 to a thinner rib face. As illustrated in FIGS. 20B, 20C,and 20D, the body 2048 of the cartridge 2020 may have a height (h) ofabout 18 mm, a length (l) of about 44 mm, a width (w) of about 26 mm, arib face thickness (t_(i)) of about 1.8 mm, a rib base thickness(t_(ii)) of about 2.2 mm, a base air channel gap (d_(i)) of about 1.6mm, a face air channel gap (d_(ii)) of about 2.0 mm, a volume of about12,500 mm³, and a surface area of about 12,600 mm².

Increased air freshening substance may be released from a cartridgehaving increased surface area because the air freshening substance maybe volatized at a higher rate. However, a cartridge having increasedsurface area may deplete more quickly than a cartridge of the samecomposition with lower surface area.

In certain embodiments, the cartridge body has a height of from about2.5 mm to about 25.5 mm. In certain embodiments, the cartridge body hasa length of from about 2.5 mm to about 76.5 mm. In certain embodiments,the cartridge body has a width of from about 2.5 mm to about 76.5 mm.

In some embodiments, the substrate of a cartridge body has a thicknessof about 0.01 inch (0.25 mm) to about 0.5 inch (13 mm). In certainembodiments, the substrate of a cartridge body has a thickness of about1/16 inch (1.6 mm) to about ¼ inch (6.4 mm). In some embodiments, theribs extending from the substrate have an average thickness of about0.01 inch (0.25 mm) to about 0.5 inch (13 mm). In some embodiments, theribs extending from the substrate have an average thickness of about ⅛inch (3.2 mm) to about 1/32 inch (0.8 mm). In certain embodiments, thethickness of the ribs decreases from a greatest thickness at thesubstrate to a smallest thickness at the face of the cartridge. Forexample, the ribs may have a thickness at the substrate of from about0.76 mm to about 7.62 mm and a thickness at the face of the cartridge offrom about 1.02 mm to about 6.35 mm.

In certain embodiments, the cartridge body and ribs are designed toprovide an average air channel gap thickness between adjacent ribs offrom about 0.76 mm to about 12.7 mm. For example, the air gap may betapered such that the thickness of the air channel gap is greatest atthe face of the cartridge and smallest at the substrate. For example,the air channel gap may have a thickness at the substrate of from about0.76 mm to about 12.7 mm and a thickness at the face of the cartridge offrom about 1.12 mm to about 11.43 mm.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 17 the cartridge 1520 hasflexible features 1542 configured to interact with a sensor 1546 in thecavity 1516.

In certain embodiments, the cartridge further includes a handlingfeature to assist in installation and removal of the cartridge in/from acavity and/or to allow a handler to avoid touching the body portion ofthe cartridge. In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 21-27, thehandling feature may be integrated into the cartridge body. For example,the handling feature may be molded into any of the cartridge bodydesigns described herein. In certain embodiments, the handling featuremay include one or more indentations or extended tabs that allow forgripping the cartridge body. As shown in FIG. 21, the cartridge 2120 issimilar to the cartridge design of FIG. 19, but includes fourindentations 2160, wherein the central 4 ribs of the cartridge body 2148have a length of about one-third the length of the other ribs 2150,thereby providing a gripping feature for a user. Other embodiments ofgripping features that are formed by the cartridge body are illustratedin FIGS. 22-27.

In other embodiments, a handling feature may be formed by a structurethat is distinct from the cartridge body, such as a pull tab or otherfeature. Such handling features may formed of a similar material to thecartridge body or a different material, such as silicone or anothermaterial, so that the user can avoid touching the cartridge body.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 28A and 28B, the cartridge2820 includes a fin 2860 extending from one end of the cartridge 2820 toprovide both a gripping feature for removal (i.e., portion extendingabove the top surface of the cartridge 2820 when the cartridge 2820 isloaded in the cavity 2816) and to orient the cartridge 2820 within thecavity 2816 (i.e., portion extending past the length of the cartridgebody 2848 is configured to fit between projections 2827 within thecavity 2816. Thus, as shown in FIG. 28B, the gripping feature 2860 maybe gripped by a user for cartridge removal. Additionally, as alsodiscussed with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, in FIGS. 28A and 28B, thecavity includes two tapered cross-shaped posts 2830, 2831 of differentheights (one of approximately the height of the cartridge, and oneapproximately half that height) located near opposite corners of thecavity 2816. As shown in FIG. 28B, the difference in heights of theposts 2830, 2831 enables easier removal of the cartridge 2820 from thecavity 2816.

Another embodiment of a gripping feature is shown in FIGS. 29A and 29B,which illustrate a cartridge 2920 that is similar to the cartridge ofFIG. 19, having two recesses therethrough for mating engagement with theprojections 2930, 2931 of dispenser cavity 2916. The cartridge 2920includes a gripping feature 2960 extending from one end of the cartridge2920, past the length of the cartridge body 2948. In the embodiment ofthe cavity 2920 shown, the gripping feature 2960 is accessible by a userto facilitate removal of the cartridge 2920 from the cavity 2916.

Another embodiment of a gripping feature is shown in FIGS. 30A, 30B, 30Cand 30D, which illustrate a cartridge 3020 having a fin 3060 extendingfrom one of the ribs 3050 of the cartridge body 3048, past the height ofthe cartridge body 3048. For example, the fin 3060 may include a livinghinge, i.e., an integral hinge. The cartridge 3020 may be loaded into acavity 3016, such that upon closing of the cavity door 3034, the fin3060 is bent at the living hinge to accommodate the cavity door 3034.When the cavity door 3034 is opened, the fin 3060 may be gripped by auser to remove the cartridge 3020 from the cavity 3016.

Other embodiments of cartridges having handling features extending fromthe ribs of the cartridge body, past the height of the cartridge body,are illustrated in FIGS. 31, 32, and 33.

Air Freshener Systems & Methods

Air freshener systems and methods are also provided herein. In certainembodiments, an air freshener system include an air freshener dispenserhaving any features or combination of features described herein and acartridge having a size and shape to fit in the cavity of the dispenserto provide the desired passive and/or fan-induced release of the airfreshener substance.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, an air freshener systemincludes (i) a cartridge 120 having a body 148 including a polymerimpregnated with an air freshening substance and having a volume of fromabout 0.4 in³ (7,000 mm³) to about 1.4 in³ (23,000 mm³) and a surfacearea of from about 9 in² (6,000 mm²) to about 28 in² (18,000 mm²), (ii)a housing 103 having a cavity 116 containing the cartridge 120, (iii) afan 112 within the housing 103 that induces an airflow through thehousing 103 and directs the airflow to an area outside of the housing103, such that released air freshening substance is entrained in theairflow directed from the housing 103, (iv) a motor (not shown) withinthe housing 103 for driving the fan 112, (v) at least one sensor 122,124, and (vi) a controller 114 within the housing 103 that receives asignal from the at least one sensor 122, 124 and directs operation ofthe fan 112 in response thereto.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5, the air freshener system isconfigured such that the cavity 516 and cartridge 520 are sized andshaped to enable the cartridge 520 to be oriented in the cavity 516 withthe airflow channels 552 of the cartridge 520 aligned with an airflowpath 529 between the air inlet 528 and the fan 512. For example, asdiscussed above, the housing may include at least one projection withinthe cavity corresponding to one or more recesses of the cartridge. Insome embodiments, the projection is configured to orient the cartridgein the cavity such that the airflow channels of the cartridge arealigned with an airflow path between the air inlet and the fan. In someembodiments, as discussed above, the projection(s) of the housing areconfigured to allow airflow thereby in the recess(es) of the cartridge,to appropriately maximize release of the air freshening substance fromthe cartridge body.

Thus, parameters of the system, including, but not limited to, thecartridge body composition (e.g., air freshening substance to matrixmaterial ratio), the cartridge body size and shape (e.g., volume andsurface area), the housing and cavity headspace volumes, and thevolumetric air release rate and fan speed, may be selected to achieve aparticular air freshener release profile for the system. For example,these parameters may be tailored, along with the above-describedcontroller logic sequences, to achieve release of a consistent amount ofair freshening substance to combat odor and/or provide fragrance over adesired lifetime of the cartridge, without depleting the cartridge tooquickly or providing overwhelming or unpleasant fragrance release.

In certain embodiments, the system parameters are configured such thatthe lifetime of the cartridge in the air freshener dispenser at regularusage rates is from 7 days to 60 days. For example, the system may beconfigured such that the lifetime of the cartridge in the air freshenerdispenser at regular usage rates is about 7 days, about 14 days, about30 days, or about 60 days, depending on the desired maintenance scheduleand other considerations.

In certain embodiments, the system parameters are configured such thatthe airflow containing the entrained, released air freshening substanceis directed from the dispenser at a volumetric rate of from about 0.1ft³/min (0.003 m³/min) to about 10 ft³/min (0.3 m³/min). In someembodiments, the airflow containing the entrained released airfreshening substance is directed from the housing at a volumetric rateof from about 1 ft³/min (0.03 m³/min) to about 3 ft³/min (0.09 m³/min).

In certain embodiments, the cartridge has a surface area and otherrelevant design features sufficient to infuse the headspace of thecavity with air freshening substance released from the cartridge, suchthat within at least 30 seconds (e.g., from 10 to 25 seconds) theheadspace is filled with the air freshening substance in the absence ofthe fan being driven. As used herein, the term “infuse” refers tofilling the headspace with air freshening substance, accounting forpassive diffusion of the air freshening substance to an area outside ofthe relevant volume (e.g., the cavity headspace or housing headspace).That is, the system may be configured such that the cartridge passivelyreleases a sufficient volume of air freshening substance to infuse thecavity headspace within 30 seconds and thereby release a maximum amountof air freshening substance upon running the fan.

In certain embodiments, a kit is also provided, including an airfreshener cartridge and an automated air freshener dispenser. Forexample, any suitable air freshener dispenser described herein alongwith a suitable cartridge configured to be loaded in the cavity of thedispenser may be provided as a kit of parts. In some embodiments, a kitincludes (i) a cartridge having a body including a matrix materialimpregnated with an air freshening substance and having a volume of fromabout 0.1 in³ (1,600 mm³) to about 2.5 in³ (41,000 mm³) and a surfacearea of from about 2.0 in² (1,300 mm²) to about 40 in² (26,000 mm²), and(ii) an automated air freshener dispenser having a housing with a cavityfor receiving the air freshener cartridge, a fan within the housing thatinduces an airflow through the housing and directs the airflow to anarea outside of the air freshener dispenser, such that released airfreshening substance is entrained in the airflow directed from the airfreshener dispenser, a motor within the housing for driving the fan, atleast one sensor; and a controller within the housing that receives asignal from the at least one sensor and directs operation of the fan inresponse thereto.

Methods for reducing malodor in a public washroom are also provided.These methods may include, for instance, (i) providing an air freshenerdispenser as described in any embodiments, or combination ofembodiments, described herein, (ii) detecting the presence of a usernear a sensor and/or detecting a user-request for air freshenerdispense, (iii) transmitting a signal from the sensor(s) to thecontroller to drive rotation of the fan and induce an airflow throughthe dispenser, and (d) directing airflow containing released airfreshening substance from the air freshener dispenser.

EXAMPLES

Air freshener cartridges and dispensers having a variety of designs andparameters were manufactured and tested for performance characteristics,including fragrance intensity and air freshener longevity.

Example 1

A cartridge prototype having an asterisk-shaped cross section(hereinafter “Cartridge 1,” see Table 1 for parameters) was manufacturedand tested using a dispenser having a motor configured to drive a fanfor a period of 15, 30, or 60 seconds, to induce an airflow throughand/or around the cartridge to volatilize the air freshening substancecontained therein and to dispense the airflow containing the releasedair freshening substance. The dispensers had either a small (0.1 in²) ora large (1 in²) airflow outlet open surface area. The fan was configuredto run at 5000 rpm and to induce airflow from the dispenser at a rate ofabout 3 ft³/min (0.09 m³/min). The fan was run for the specifiedduration every 10 minutes and the intensity of the fragrance released onwas determined by a panel of experts according to a 5-point scale (with“5” indicating the greatest fragrance intensity and a near overwhelmingfragrance level, and “0” indicating no fragrance detected). Intensityvalues of 2-4 were considered acceptable fragrance levels.

FIG. 34 shows the results of fragrance intensity and longevity testingperformed on Cartridge 1 in dispensers having a small (0.1 in²) and alarge (1 in²) airflow outlet open surface area (indicated as “small SA”and “large SA,” respectively) with a fan being run for 30 seconds or 15seconds, as indicated in the chart legend. As shown in FIG. 34, each ofthe dispenser-cartridge systems provided a fragrance intensity ofbetween 2 to 4 and longevity of more than 30 days.

TABLE 1 Experimental Cartridge Parameters Cartridge 1 (Asterisk- ShapedCartridge 2 Cartridge 3 Cartridge 4 Prototype) (FIG. 18A) (FIG. 19A)(FIG. 20A) Composition 25 wt % 25 wt % 25 wt % 25 wt % fragrance tofragrance to fragrance to fragrance to 75 wt % 75 wt % 75 wt % 75 wt %polymer polymer polymer polymer Surface Area 13.85 14.8 20.34 19.6 (in²)Volume 0.95 0.95 0.94 0.76 (in³) Surface 14.6 15.6 21.6 25.8 Area/Volume(in⁻) Avg. Weight 14.44 12.9 13.3 11.42 (g)

As shown in FIG. 35, minute-by-minute fragrance intensity testing wasalso performed with the fan being run for 15, 30, or 60 seconds with thesmall airflow outlet on the dispenser. The results show that thefragrance intensity peaks within the first few minutes of the fan beingactivated, but that the fragrance is present at an intensity of 2 orabove for up to about 8 minutes thereafter. It was also determined thatrunning the fan for 60 seconds for this experimental design produced avery high fragrance intensity that could be unpleasant to users, whilerunning the fan for 15 seconds produced a low fragrance intensity.

Example 2

Based on the fragrance intensity and longevity data generated in Example1, Cartridges 2, 3, and 4 were manufactured, to correspond generally tothe cartridge body designs shown in FIGS. 18A, 19A, and 20A,respectively. Cartridge parameters (shown in Table 1) were selected toachieve similar air freshener release performance to Cartridge 1, basedon the tests conducted in Example 1. Of these three cartridges,Cartridges 2 and 3 have similar designs, with different numbers of ribsand rib thicknesses. The parameters of Cartridge 2 most closely resemblethose of Cartridge 1, while Cartridge 3 has a higher surface area butthe same volume, and Cartridge 4 has a still higher surface area butdecreased volume.

Fragrance intensity results of Cartridges 2 and 3, using six differentfragrances are shown in FIGS. 36 and 37, respectively, over a six weektest period with a fan run every 5 minutes (24 hours per day, 7 days perweek) in a closed evaluation booth of approximately 290 cubic feet. Thefragrance intensity was assessed weekly. After the fan is run, theintensity level of the fragrance was determined within 15 minutes.Results showed that Cartridge 2 and Cartridge 3 gave similar fragranceintensity performance for all six fragrances, with Cartridge 3 showingslightly higher fragrance intensity throughout. Thus, based on theCartridge 2 and Cartridge 3 results, it was determined that having moresurface area at a constant volume on the refill gives more fragranceintensity.

Cartridge 4 parameters were selected to test the effect of cartridgedesign as well as surface area and volume on fragrance intensity.Cartridge 4 has a different design than Cartridge 2 and Cartridge 3.Cartridge 4 contains wavy, serpentine ribs parallel to fan airflowwhereas Cartridge 2 and Cartridge 3 have straight ribs parallel to fanairflow. Additionally, Cartridge 4 has a lower volume than Cartridges 2and 3, thus having the highest surface area to volume ratio of the threeCartridge designs. Fragrance intensity results of Cartridge 4, using sixdifferent fragrances are shown in FIG. 38, over a six week test period,as described above.

Results using Cartridge 4 showed a slightly lower fragrance intensityperformance for all six fragrances compared to Cartridges 2 and 3. Thus,the larger surface area to volume ratio of Cartridge 4 compared to thoseof Cartridges 2 and 3 unexpectedly did not produce stronger fragranceintensity. Thus, it was concluded that the lower fragrance performanceof Cartridge 4 could be due to the wavy ridges of Cartridge 4 causing arestricted airflow around the refill for fragrance delivery. Therefore,cartridge design plays a significant role in attaining the desiredfragrance release profile. Chemical compositions, physical properties ofthe fragrances, and refill design combined with mechanical parameters ofthe dispenser complete the fragrance delivery to achieve targetperformance.

Example 3

Various dispenser logic sequences were also tested for fragranceintensity performance. Specifically, Cartridges 2, 3, and 4 as describedabove were tested in a dispenser simulating a release in response to (A)motion activation and (B) motion activation followed by a user-request.The dispensers were located in a central stall of a multi-stallwashroom. For logic sequence (A), the fan was run for 40 seconds.Evaluations of the fragrance intensity within the stall were determinedat various times within 10 minutes of the fan being run. For logicsequence (B), the fan was run for 40 seconds, then was stopped for 60seconds, then was run again for 20 seconds. Evaluations of the fragranceintensity within the stall were determined at various times within 10minutes of the fan being run initially. The fragrance intensity data forlogic sequence (A) are shown in FIG. 39 and the fragrance intensity datafor logic sequence (B) are shown in FIG. 40.

Example 4

Passive vent locations on the dispenser were also tested. Specifically,dispensers having a top vent (e.g., a vent on the surface of thedispenser housing that is opposite the floor when the dispenser isinstalled on the wall) and a back vent (e.g., a vent on the surface ofthe dispenser adjacent the wall) to allow for passive diffusion of aircontaining passively released air freshening substance were tested withCartridge 2. The results of these tests are shown in FIGS. 41 and 42,which show the measured fragrance intensity over time. These resultsindicate that open venting does allow for significant passive diffusionof the air freshening substance from the cartridge absent running of thefan, which lead to a more even fragrance release profile between fanactivations.

Accordingly, air freshener dispensers, cartridges, and systems may bedesigned to achieve desired air freshener release in settings such aswashrooms, washroom stalls, and other locations where malodor is acommon issue. The air freshener dispensers, cartridges, and systemsdescribed herein may have one or more of the following benefits overcurrently available options: (1) improved effectiveness because thedispenser/freshener is closer to the source of the malodor; (2) improvedeffectiveness because washroom patrons can address instances of acutemalodor through on-demand control; (3) easier refillability because thedispenser/freshener is positioned at a lower height than typical wallmounted devices; (4) easier maintenance because the dispenser/freshenerdoes not require a liquid refill; and (5) improved cost effectivenessbecause the air freshener can be activated only when needed orrequested.

While the disclosure has been described with reference to a number ofexample embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the artthat the invention is not limited to such embodiments. Rather, theinvention can be modified to incorporate any number of variations,alterations, substitutions, or equivalent arrangements not describedherein, but which are commensurate with the spirit and scope of theinvention. Additionally, while various example embodiments of theinvention have been described, it is to be understood that aspects ofthe invention may include only some of the described embodiments.Accordingly, the invention is not to be seen as limited by the foregoingdescription, but is only limited by the scope of the appended claims.

We claim:
 1. An automated air freshener dispenser, comprising: anelongated housing that comprises a cavity for receiving a cartridgecomprising an air freshening substance for release, the elongatedhousing having a first end and an opposed second end; a centrifugal fanwithin the housing that induces an airflow through the housing anddirects the airflow to an area outside of the air freshener dispenser,such that released air freshening substance is entrained in the airflowdirected from the air freshener dispenser; a motor within the housingfor driving the fan; at least one sensor; and a controller within thehousing that receives a signal from the at least one sensor and directsoperation of the fan in response thereto, wherein, relative to the fan,the cavity is disposed closer to the first end of the housing and,relative to the cavity, the fan is disposed closer to the second end ofthe housing, and wherein the housing further comprises an airflow outletthrough which the airflow comprising the entrained released airfreshening substance is directed from the air freshener dispenser, theairflow outlet being disposed closer to the second end of the housing,relative to the cavity.
 2. The air freshener dispenser of claim 1,wherein an axis of rotation of the centrifugal fan is positioned outsideof the cavity.
 3. The air freshener dispenser of claim 1, wherein the atleast one sensor is selected from a group consisting of motion sensors,light sensors, malodor sensors, switches, and combinations thereof. 4.The air freshener dispenser of claim 1, wherein the fan is positionedwithin the housing between the airflow outlet and the cavity.
 5. The airfreshener dispenser of claim 1, wherein: the housing further comprisesan air inlet, and an airflow path from the air inlet to the airflowoutlet is tortuous.
 6. An automated air freshener dispenser, comprising:a housing that comprises a cavity for receiving a cartridge comprisingan air freshening substance for release; a fan within the housing thatinduces an airflow through the housing and directs the airflow to anarea outside of the air freshener dispenser, such that released airfreshening substance is entrained in the airflow directed from the airfreshener dispenser; a motor within the housing for driving the fan; atleast one sensor; and a controller within the housing that receives asignal from the at least one sensor and directs operation of the fan inresponse thereto, wherein an axis of rotation of the fan is positionedoutside of the cavity.
 7. The air freshener dispenser of claim 6,wherein the fan is a centrifugal fan.
 8. The air freshener dispenser ofclaim 6, wherein: the housing is an elongated housing having a first endand an opposed second end, relative to the fan, the cavity is disposedcloser to the first end of the housing and, relative to the cavity, thefan is disposed closer to the second end of the housing, and the housingfurther comprises an airflow outlet through which the airflow comprisingthe entrained released air freshening substance is directed from the airfreshener dispenser, the airflow outlet being disposed closer to thesecond end of the housing, relative to the cavity.
 9. The air freshenerdispenser of claim 8, wherein the fan is positioned within the housingbetween the airflow outlet and the cavity.
 10. The air freshenerdispenser of claim 8, wherein: the housing further comprises an airinlet, and an airflow path from the air inlet to the airflow outlet istortuous.
 11. The air freshener dispenser of claim 6, wherein the atleast one sensor is selected from a group consisting of motion sensors,light sensors, malodor sensors, switches, and combinations thereof. 12.An air freshener cartridge, comprising: a body that comprises a polymerimpregnated with an air freshening substance selected from anodor-combatting composition, a fragrance, and a combination thereof,wherein the body has a volume of from about 0.4 in³ (7,000 mm³) to about2.5 in³ (41,000 mm³) and a surface area of from about 9 in² (6,000 mm²)to about 40 in² (26,000 mm²).
 13. The air freshener cartridge of claim12, wherein the body has a volume of from about 0.4 in³ (7,000 mm³) toabout 1.4 in³ (23,000 mm³).
 14. The air freshener cartridge of claim 12,wherein the body has a surface area of from about 9 in² (6,000 mm²) toabout 28 in² (18,000 mm²).
 15. The air freshener cartridge of claim 12,wherein the body has a weight of from about 6 g to about 20 g.
 16. Theair freshener cartridge of claim 12, wherein the body comprises the airfreshening substance in an amount of from about 1 percent by weight toabout 75 percent by weight.
 17. The air freshener cartridge of claim 12,wherein the polymer comprises ethylene-vinyl acetate.
 18. The airfreshener cartridge of claim 12, wherein the body comprises a substrateand a plurality of ribs extending from the substrate and forming airflowchannels therebetween.
 19. The air freshener cartridge of claim 18,wherein: the body comprises airflow channels on a first surface of thecartridge and on a second surface, opposite the first surface, of thecartridge, and at least a portion of the airflow channels on the firstsurface are symmetrically opposed from at least a portion of the airflowchannels on the second surface.
 20. An air freshener system, comprising:a cartridge comprising a body that comprises a matrix materialimpregnated with an air freshening substance for release selected froman odor-combatting composition, a fragrance, and a combination thereof,the body comprising a plurality of ribs extending from a substrate andforming airflow channels therebetween; a housing that comprises a cavitycontaining the cartridge; a fan within the housing that induces anairflow through the housing and directs the airflow to an area outsideof the housing, such that released air freshening substance is entrainedin the airflow directed from the housing; a motor within the housing fordriving the fan; at least one sensor; and a controller within thehousing that receives a signal from the at least one sensor and directsoperation of the fan in response thereto.
 21. The air freshener systemof claim 20, wherein the body comprises a volume of from about 0.1 in³(1,600 mm³) to about 2.5 in³ (41,000 mm³) and a surface area of fromabout 2.0 in² (1,300 mm²) to about 40 in² (26,000 mm²).
 22. The airfreshener system of claim 20, wherein: the housing further comprises anair inlet, the cavity and cartridge are sized and shaped such that thecartridge is oriented in the cavity such that the airflow channels ofthe cartridge are aligned with an airflow path between the air inlet andthe fan.
 23. The air freshener system of claim 20, wherein the cavityhas a headspace volume of from about 1 in³ (20,000 mm³) to about 4 in³(70,000 mm³).
 24. The air freshener system of claim 20, wherein thehousing has a headspace volume of from about 15 in³ (250,000 mm³) toabout 45 in³ (740,000 mm³).